'Disease' fears after dog mess playground vandalism

The night-time vandalism, which happened last Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday, could "put children at risk of disease"

Cruel vandals have smeared dog poo over a South Godstone children's playground three times in the past week.

Hoodlums emptied canine bins at Hunter's Chase in Harcourt Way and wiped the mess all over the equipment.

The incidents happened on Wednesday July 2, the following day and on Sunday (July 6).

A spokesman for Tandridge District Council, which has appealed for witnesses and information, said: "Apart from stopping children using the play area while it is being cleaned, they are putting children, their parents or guardians and themselves at risk of disease from toxocara canis.

"This is a common parasite found in dog faeces that can cause asthma, epilepsy and blindness.

"Toddlers playing in parks are especially vulnerable as it is caught by swallowing soil contaminated with the toxocara eggs, spread through infected dog faeces.

"While toxocara infections are rare and are more likely to affect children because of their play habits, adults can become ill too.

"As the play area is overlooked by houses and a school, it is believed the play area is being targeted at night."

Anyone with information about the crimes should contact Surrey Police on 101 quoting reference P14195779.

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She has been editorial director of the online and print titles in Surrey and north-east Hampshire since 2007. Marnie previously worked at the BBC as a producer for 5 Live, having moved to national radio from BBC Sussex and Surrey.